Whether you’re just starting or have been designing for a while, we all hit the same roadblock: figuring out where to find genuinely helpful references instead of leading us astray.
- Beginners often dive into a sea of beautiful images, only to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices.
- On the other hand, seasoned designers might stick to sites like Behance or Dribbble, admiring stunning concepts but finding it tough to grasp what truly resonates with users versus what’s just eye candy.
This leads to two main pitfalls:
- Spending time on resources that don’t yield practical outcomes.
- Unintentionally mimicking ideas that could be ineffective or not user-friendly.
Taking a structured approach to gathering web design references can help ensure that your designs are not only visually striking but also functional.
What Web Design References Are and Why They Matter
A web design reference serves as a valuable source of inspiration and guidance for your project. It helps you:
- Define the style and mood
- Identify user-friendly interface elements
- Understand practical solutions that work
References can come from a variety of sources: websites, apps, real products, graphics, photos, architecture, illustrations—anything that helps you visualize your ideas and steer the project in the right direction.
The main goal of these references is to speed up the design process and minimize mistakes. For instance, taking a close look at a competitor’s clunky menu can quickly reveal why adopting a similar approach might not be the best idea.
When it comes to gathering web design references, here’s a simple guide to get you started:
- Define your goals. Think about what you want to achieve. Are you focusing on style, color schemes, typography, layout, or maybe some interactive features?
- Separate elements. Don’t hesitate to mix and match! You can take the style from one reference, the layout from another, and typography or icons from yet another. Just remember to adapt and blend these ideas instead of copying them outright.
- Focus on the user. Keep your target audience in mind at all times. Which elements will resonate with them and be easy to understand?
Looking for the best ways to store your references?
Online boards and moodboards are fantastic options! Tools like Miro, Notion, and Figma make it super easy to organize and annotate your references.
Here’s how to categorize them:
– Style and atmosphere
– Structure and UX
– Typography and color palettes
– Icons and graphic elements
Don’t forget to annotate! Jot down why a reference catches your eye and how you might use it in your work.
Now, let’s talk about where to find those references:
Designer Platforms:
Check out sites like Behance, Dribbble, Awwwards, Muzli, Httpster, and Pinterest. They’re goldmines for visual inspiration and creative ideas.
Real Projects and Products:
Look at competitor websites and apps, especially those leading in your field or related niches.
Explore the App Store or Google Play to see real interfaces, navigation flows, and UX solutions in action.
User reviews and ratings can also give you insight into what really works.
For example, if you’re designing a banking app, don’t just rely on Dribbble concepts. Dive into real apps like Tinkoff, Revolut, or N26 to see how users interact with the interface and what solutions are effective.
Everyday Life:
Inspiration is all around you! From architecture and clothing to billboards, photos, and films—keep your eyes open.
How to Work With Web Design References:
Remember to analyze, not copy:
– Take style, colors, texture, and mood from one reference.
– Grab layout, structure, lines, and interactions from another.
– Pull typography, icons, and forms from a third.
Test your ideas with users: Everything you incorporate should solve problems and be clear for your audience.
Collect and annotate: Online boards allow you to view all your references in one spot, mark pros and cons, and jot down ideas.
Web design references are tools, not shortcuts. They help you:
– Speed up the design process
– Avoid mistakes
– Understand real user needs
– Choose the right visual and functional solutions
By blending designer concepts with real-world projects, you strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality.
What’s your strategy for gathering web design references? Share your experiences and favorite sources in the comments—your insights could really help fellow designers!
